TRANSVERSAL SKILLS DEVELOPMENT IN GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS FOR CIVIL ENGINEERS

In this work we evaluate the development of transversal skills in the subject of Geographic Information Systems for Civil Engineers. This experience was achieved in the framework of the implantation of European Higher Education Area (EHEA) in the Technical University of Madrid. We chose Geographic Information Systems, optative subject in 4th course of Civil Engineering Bachelor Degree, because of its inherent interdisciplinary character, involving Informatics, Geography, Engineering and Economy, among other disciplines. The subject was designed to develop both technical and transversal skills, as interdisciplinary work, autonomous learning and analytical thinking. We also promoted publication skills and social knowledge-sharing through the publication of group reports in the wiki site http://topo.caminos.upm.es/wiki. Results show good academic performance and high acquisition of transversal skills. Students got involved in the subject and it resulted on good technical formation as well as the fulfilment of transversal skills development.